Hey guys, I've been struggling with my equipment and have decided that I should start looking for a new camera. I currently have a 4MP Konica Minolta DiMage Z2 w/ 10x optical zoom. I've posted a bunch of "pre-screens" on here, but keep getting the same response: Bad quality. I've talked to several professionals about my technique and settings, and they've all said that my subject matter, framing, shutter speeds and other settings are spot on. All that's left in the link is the camera. I love the thing, but I want to move to the next level.

Now, I know that the only way to go is with an SLR camera. Keep in mind that I am a college student and also a novice, so I don't exactly need a Cannon EOS 5D (although it would be nice). I was looking at the Cannon Digital Rebel XT (8.0MP) and the XTi. They're both around $700-900 and I could get them with a nice zoom lens for about $1k (they come with a 18-55mm already). I would like to keep the total purchases under or around $1,000.

What else should I look at (I'm not stuck on Cannon, but that's all my dad uses), and what should I look for when buying one? Would it be wise to look for a used camera? Also, what zoom lens should I get with what specs? I would need something that I don't have to lug around and that is easy to switch out.

I actually just posted the exact same question a few days back, in this forum so look for the topic "Rebel Xt vs Xti". Also, the lowest you are gonna get the Xti with the 18-55 is 850- 900. Iv'e been doing a lot of checking around. So if you plan to buy another lens expect it to a be a little over 1k. How long wouldyu like the long lens?
Ashwin

I can see that you want to minimize costs here, but I strongly recommend going with the 20D suggested above. Everybody has their preference, but I find the rebel XT to be much too small for me. And my hands aren't even that big. Plus, the 20D has the jog wheel. After using that, I promise you'll never want a camera without one.

Quoting AC773 (Reply 3):I can see that you want to minimize costs here, but I strongly recommend going with the 20D suggested above. Everybody has their preference, but I find the rebel XT to be much too small for me. And my hands aren't even that big. Plus, the 20D has the jog wheel. After using that, I promise you'll never want a camera without one

What exactly does the jog-wheel do? Also, what would be the best lens combination to get in addition to the body? I know I'm gonna need a wide and a long-lens, but whats the best, most versitile combination? W: 18-55 and L: 100-400?

I was also curious into where a good place to buy a used camera would be from and if this is recommended? Do they sell them refirbished, or do they pretty much last forever since there are no moving parts?

Since this post is entirely made up of questions, this is a "gimmie" statement. How are the Nikkons? Do they produce better shots/same/worse? I plan on having this camera for a long time, so I want to make sure I get the right one for me. Thanks again guys, from a young photographer, it is greatly appreciated.

You can easily scroll through items in the menu or pictures. It also controls some functions while shooting. It's great.

Quoting Jcf5002 (Reply 4):Also, what would be the best lens combination to get in addition to the body?

Here's what I recommend. For non-aviation stuff, start off with a 50mm 1.8II. It's Canon's cheapest lens, but it also happens to be light, sharp, contrasty, and fast (meaning a wide aperture). Use this lens for a few months. You'll get to know your camera, develop an eye for composition, and when you graduate to a better lens it's still a great little piece of glass to have in your bag.

For aviation photography, the 70-300 IS is a very good lens. It'll run you about $500, but sit tight, because I have an upcoming solution for your budget. If you want a cheaper solution to get started quickly, the non-IS version of the 70-300 is still OK for beginners.

Quoting Jcf5002 (Reply 4):I was also curious into where a good place to buy a used camera would be from and if this is recommended?

Buying a used camera is always a wise choice. Go to Fredmiranda.com and become a member. They have a buy & sell forum that is very good. I bought my 10D there a few months ago and I wouldn't hesitate to buy again. Incidentally, the 10D may be the camera for you. It's not as fancy or as up-to-the-minute as some of the other cameras, but I think it's just fantastic. It has all the features of the 20D, just with 6 MP instead of 8. and unless you'll be doing some very heavy cropping, you won't be able to tell the difference. You can get one for about $500 used these days. Perfect camera for anyone on a budget, IMO.

Quoting Jcf5002 (Reply 4):Do they sell them refirbished, or do they pretty much last forever since there are no moving parts?

That may be true for a point-and-shoot, but an SLR has many moving parts. And yes, they do wear out over time. One thing to consider it that a 10D/20D/30D has an all-metal body, as opposed to the plastic on the Rebels. Take it from me, this is a huge plus. My 10D is as solid as a rock after years of use, with no creaks or rattles whatsoever. Also, the shutter on the 10D/20D/30D lasts twice as long as the shutter on a Rebel.

For the most part, the Nikon/Canon thing just comes down to personal preference. That said, Canon has a much larger list of compatible lenses than Nikon. In a world where the lens is more important than the camera, you bet that matters.

The other big thing to keep in mind is that Nikons are notoriously hard to sell because nobody wants one. A while ago, JeffM was able to sell his D200 to some girl scouts for $300 and a box of "Thin Mints." Sadly, most people aren't so fortunate.